Norwegians set to jazz up London

at EFG London Jazz Festival

A fine collection of Norwegian jazz musicians are ready to thrill audiences at this year’s jazz festival.

EFG London Jazz Festival annually celebrates the world of jazz across London venues. The festival has had a long association with Norwegian jazz and Norwegian musicians of all generations are included in this year’s programme.

Apart from their persistent undertone of jazz, it is difficult to put Jaga Jazzist’s music into a spesific genre. The large ensemble mixes jazz, progressive rock, hip-hop, reggae, polka, classical, techno and everything in between. The praised band has been in the game for over 20 year, but manages to sound and look fresh. Jaga Jazzist surprises and impresses both with their fun fuelled and energetic music and on stage.

Sinikka Langeland – Photo: Dag Alveng

In contrast, the Norwegian jazz and folk composer and performer, Sinikka Langeland makes her UK premiere with her acclaimed new album The Magical Forest. Together with instrumental soloists Arve Henriksen and Trygve Seim, and the brilliant voices of Trio Mediaeval, she will give Royal Festival a taste of true Norwegian contemporary music.

Do not miss this sundry experience of Norwegian jazz on the last day of the festival.

Rohey is a promising band, delivering powerful and energetic nu-soul music that bristles with authenticity. Modern jazz, with elements of funk and deep soul roots gives Rohey that 21st century freshness, past any concept of vogue, or any linear genre lines. Be sure to check out Rohey when they join forces with Bigyuki and Butcher Brown in a musical colourisation of the Saturday evening.

The brilliant pianist Helge Lien, his bassist and percussionist team up with Polish violinist Adam Baldych to bring a heady mix of jazz, Polish and Norwegian folk music. The foursome is set for a Saturday show in line with what Jazz FM calls “A brilliant collection of musicians from Europe”.

Norwegian singer Ingebjørg Loe Bjørnstad visits the festival with Elt, to take music into magical and ethereal terrains. Catch them in a magical performance together with award-winning Pablo Held Trio.

Norwegian powerhouse indie-jazz ensemble Pixels stop in London for two festival shows. Pixel fronts a new generation of jazz players, giving their improvisational jazz a flavour of indie-rock. The band has been well received across European venues and jazz festivals. You would not dare to miss this performance.

Karin Krog is a true legend, often considered Norway’s leading jazz singer. Famous for her recognizable style and voice and a mix of creative classic and modern approaches to the genre, the 80-year-old songstress will enthrall the London audience. Joining her is the experienced jazz saxophonist John Surman.

Norwegian Multi-instrumentalist Stian Carstensen brings his button accordion to the jazz festival for a rare, rich and beautiful performance in collaboration with saxophonist Iain Ballamy. Together they will play Chopin, Whitney Houston, jazz standards, tango and witty original music.

The Scandinavian trio, The Thing provide a mix of free jazz, forceful rock, metal and punk permeated by extreme noise and loudness. The trio are praised for their originality and interpretation of classics styles and sound across the genres. If you are looking for a hard-hitting, sound-rich experience during this festival, The Thing is what you should seek.